Puffin Viewing Site, Avalon Peninsula Travel Guide

Perched on the rugged coastline of the Bonavista Peninsula, the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site provides one of the most accessible land-based locations in North America to witness the captivating lives of Atlantic puffins. Known as the 'clowns of the sea' due to their colorful beaks and playful antics, these birds create a vibrant spectacle during their breeding season.From late May to September, thousands of puffins flock to Elliston to nest and raise their young. The viewing site, a short five-minute walk from the main road, allows visitors to stand mere meters away from the puffins as they flutter between the cliffs and the ocean. This close proximity offers incredible opportunities for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.Beyond the puffins, the area teems with other seabird species, including Black Guillemots, Common Murres, Northern Gannets, and Kittiwakes, enriching the experience for birdwatchers. The site is free to visit, though donations are encouraged to help with upkeep. While visiting, be sure to explore Elliston, also known as the 'Root Cellar Capital of the World', and discover the unique cultural heritage of this charming Newfoundland town.